Political Defections in Turkey: 9 Mayors Join Justice and Development Party
Following Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s announcement about new members joining the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), local media reported that 9 mayors from opposition parties are defecting to AKP. This political shift occurred on the eve of the 24th anniversary ceremony of AKP’s founding.
List of Mayors and Former Affiliations
According to reports, the following mayors are set to join AKP:
Özlem Çerçioğlu, Metropolitan Mayor of Aydın (from Republican People’s Party – CHP)
Mayors of Söke, Yenipazar, and Sultanhisar in Aydın Province (all from CHP)
Mayor of Şehitkamil in Gaziantep Province (CHP)
Mayor of Altınova in Yalova Province (CHP)
Mayor of Yalvaç in Isparta Province (İYİ Parti/Good Party)
Mayor of Yeşiltepe in Aksaray Province (İYİ Parti/Good Party)
Mayor of Bozkurt in Kastamonu Province (Independent)
Official Welcoming Ceremony
An official welcoming ceremony for the mayors is expected to take place during AKP’s anniversary event on Thursday. Erdoğan is anticipated to personally present them with party badges.
Political Reactions
Özgür Özel, Leader of CHP, strongly criticized Çerçioğlu, stating:
“The votes of Aydın’s people were cast for CHP’s program, not for individuals who change their stance after elections. This action results from political pressure.”
He also noted that the mayors’ defection to AKP could lead to legal proceedings.
Context of Erdoğan’s Remarks
One day prior to the event, the President emphasized in a public speech:
“Our party continues to grow despite all pressures. New members will join the AKP family, strengthening our popular base.”
He stated the party’s membership exceeds “one million people.”
Impact on Political Balance
These defections may affect local council compositions:
In Aydın Province, control of 4 municipalities shifts away from CHP.
İYİ Parti (Good Party) loses two municipalities.
Under Turkish law, defecting mayors may retain their positions.
